Description
This easy garlic butter recipe is a delicious and versatile spread that combines softened unsalted butter with fresh garlic, parsley, and a hint of lemon juice. Perfect for enhancing the flavor of bread, vegetables, seafood, or steak, this homemade garlic butter is simple to prepare and can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer for convenient use anytime.
Ingredients
Scale
Garlic Butter Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 garlic cloves, minced (or 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic paste)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional for added freshness)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
- Shape and Store: Transfer the prepared garlic butter into an airtight container or shape it into a log form using parchment paper. Roll the butter tightly and twist the ends of the parchment paper to seal the log properly.
- Immediate Use: Use the garlic butter immediately by spreading it on bread, melting it over cooked dishes, or adding into recipes as desired.
- Refrigeration: Store the garlic butter in the refrigerator and consume within 2 weeks to maintain freshness and flavor.
- Freezing Method: For longer storage, wrap the parchment paper log in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze the garlic butter for up to 3 months.
- Using Frozen Butter: When ready to use from frozen, slice off the desired amount directly from the frozen log or thaw it in the refrigerator before spreading or cooking.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of garlic according to your taste preference for a milder or stronger flavor.
- Fresh parsley is optional but adds a nice color and fresh herbaceous note.
- Lemon juice brightens the flavor but can be omitted if you prefer a more traditional garlic butter taste.
- Use unsalted butter so you can control the salt level precisely.
- Store tightly wrapped or in an airtight container to prevent the butter from absorbing other odors in the fridge or freezer.
